Mathieu van der Poel, already a dominant force across multiple cycling disciplines, is aiming to conquer new territory in 2025: mountain biking. Having claimed victories in nearly every major spring Classic except Gent-Wevelgem (2nd in 2024) and Liège-Bastogne-Liège (3rd in 2024) and settled his rivalry with Wout van Aert through a superior Monument and world title count, Van der Poel is now chasing a mountain bike world title to complete his collection of rainbow jerseys across four disciplines.
Despite his extensive achievements in cyclo-cross, road, and gravel racing, Van der Poel views mountain biking as an unfulfilled goal. “It’s a race I would like to win,” he says, determined to finally triumph in a discipline that has previously eluded him.
Before that challenge, his focus remains on the spring Classics. He is targeting a third consecutive Milan-Sanremo win, a record-breaking fourth Tour of Flanders title, and a Paris-Roubaix three-peat a feat last accomplished by Francesco Moser in 1980. Confident yet realistic, Van der Poel acknowledges that winning in Roubaix requires both strong legs and a stroke of luck.
In peak physical form and free from the back pain that once hampered him, he feels better than ever. Mentally, he’s more composed, approaching races with less stress but unwavering determination. His recent cyclo-cross world title came with a sense of ease, reflecting his balanced mindset.
Though he considered skipping the Tour de France, Van der Poel will compete to support teammate Jasper Philipsen and pursue his own stage wins. “I only have one Tour stage win so far, so hopefully I can add another,” he says, motivated despite preferring other races.
His ultimate ambition this season, however, is the mountain bike world championship. Success there would place him alongside Pauline Ferrand-Prévot and Marianne Vos as champions in four disciplines. Yet, Van der Poel’s journey won’t end there he hints at future goals, including a Vuelta a España appearance and more spring Classic triumphs. “As long as I’m healthy and still enjoying it, why stop?” he says, ready to push his legendary career even further.
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